SOCIAL ENTERPRISE / START-UP BOOKS TO READ!

To commemorate World Book Day, the Better Space team has curated a list of social enterprise books. Taking recommendations from a range of contributors, to encourage us all to read more.

There’s nothing better than curling up with your favorite book: whether a physical, audio or e-book. But have you ever considered delving into more non-fiction books about social enterprises and start-ups?

FEAR NOT! Here is a mini list of books to get you started:

Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist

Simon Says: For me it has to be Doughnut Economics - This is a great read to understand more about the current economic system, why and how it was created and more importantly why it no longer is suitable as a measurement in society! Sustaining increasing growth means something has to give, and with the climate emergency that we find ourselves in now - the environment can no longer be ignored for the sake of captialism. The book highlights the importance of using imagery to demonstrate theories over wordy descriptions and ultimately teaches a new approach to finding a balance of 'enough' over constantly seeking 'more' - check it out!

Start Something That Matters

Corey Ames (of Grow Ensemble) Says: Start Something That Matters is a wonderful look into the simplicity and resourcefulness with which TOMS began—with a mailing address attached to a neighborhood coffee shop, teams of interns working enthusiastically and tirelessly, and the ‘One for One’ giveback model now popularized in the arena of purpose-driven business.

Changing The World Without Losing Your Mind

Rhett Power (Forbes Contributor) Says: “Social entrepreneurs may want to save the planet, but they have a peculiar Achilles’ heel: They neglect themselves. I should know—I’ve been guilty of trying to play the hero, only to fall short because I burn myself out. Alex Counts argues that a dreamer without personal life balance can never truly achieve his or her bigger missions. He recommends that service-driven leaders be just as caring of their own needs as they are of others.”

Building Social Business

Alice Zhang (of The Good Trade) Says: The pioneer of microfinance (for which he won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006) Muhammad Yunus takes a reading-glasses-on, academic approach to how social enterprises can generate economic growth as they make positive ripple effects around the globe. Yunus not only advises budding social entrepreneurs (bring your highlighter!) but also points to examples of how social enterprises unlock opportunity for people living in the developing world. If you love head-in-the-clouds theory about the potential of business (or like to know where the industry is going), look no further than Yunus’ book that advocates for more inclusive capitalism that lifts everyone up.

Rich Dad, Poor Dad.

Haider Shah (of City Ventures) Says: For me it's probably Rich Dad Poor Dad. It teaches you the basics on how the wealthy and successful people in society get ahead in life and the main differences between the working class and the top earners.

HAVE YOU READ ANY OF THESE BOOKS? WHAT DID YOU THINK?

What book would you recommend?

Comment here on our latest post.